Boston Terrier Traits

Boston Terrier History

The Boston Terrier originated, not surprisingly, in Boston, Massachusetts.

The coachmen of wealthy Bostonians interbred their employers' dogs to create dogs for themselves. Around 1865, a cross between an English Terrier and a Bulldog produced a dog named Hooper's Judge. Judge weighed in at 30 pounds, but in subsequent generations smaller dogs arose as his descendents were bred to smaller females, and probably to French Bulldogs as well.

By 1889, the breed was established to the extent that fanciers formed the American Bull Terrier Club. A new name had to be found, however, because a breed called the Bull Terrier already existed, and its fanciers complained. After several name suggestions, including "Roundheads," the name Boston Terrier was agreed upon.

The AKC recognized the Boston Terrier in 1893. This may be the shortest period between the creation of an entirely new breed and AKC recognition.

At first, color and markings were immaterial, but by the early 1900s, the breed's distinctive coat pattern became essential.

Between 1905 and 1935, the Boston Terrier was consistently the first or second most popular breed in America.

Boston Terrier Behavior Concerns

Makes a devoted and lively companion.

Playful and affectionate.

Very good with children.

Somewhat reserved toward strangers.

Usually good with strange dogs, although may initially challenge them.

Good with other pets.

Clever, but can be stubborn. It tends to rebel against forceful methods.

Does best with reward-based training with good control and leadership.

Some bark a lot.

Boston Terrier Suggested Exercises

Makes a calm and alert housedog.

Requires daily exercise in the form of a walk, short jog, or energetic games.

Ball-chasing is a favored game.

Obedience provides needed mental exercise.

Does not tolerate cold well because of its small size and short coat.

Does not tolerate heat well because of its flat face.

Boston Terrier Grooming

Coat is short, flat and fine.

The coat needs only weekly brushing to remove dead hair.

Shedding is average.

Suggested Boston Terrier Nutritional Needs

Boston Terriers tend to stay in good weight or tend to be slightly overweight.

Adult dogs should be fed a balanced diet, with restricted calories if the dog starts to gain too much weight.

Specialty Care

As part of the VCA family, we have over 83 specialty hospitals across the US and Canada which provide referral specialty care, so there may be one near you. Enter ZIP to find VCA specialty care hospitals near you.